HEADLAMP MILESTONES

1898

The first electric headlamps are introduced on the Columbia electric car.

1912

Cadillac integrates its vehicles’ electrical ignition and lighting systems (the lights were separately powered by a ba ery before).

1915

The Guide Lamp Company introduces the first “dipping” beams, now more commonly known as low beam.

1917

Cadillac introduces the first leveroperated low beam. Before, the driver had to stop and manually adjust the lights.

1924

The first bulb (Bilux) capable of emi ing light for both low and high beams is unveiled.

1927

The first footoperated dimmer switch reaches production.

1933

Packard launches tri-beam headlamps with three filaments and three modes.

1934

Directional lighting is introduced on the Czechoslovakian Tatra 77.

1936

The first hidden headlamps (pop-up lights) debut on the Cord 810/812.

1947

The world’s first steering-linked lighting in the Tucker Torpedo launches. The Citroën DS makes the technology famous in later years.

1991

First xenon lights in the BMW 7 Series.

2007

First LED headlamps in the Lexus LS600H.

2014

First laser headlamps in the BMW i8.